The Blog of The Elliott Bay Book Company

Staff Recommendations from Elliott Bay

Wow! This story hooked me quickly. To scientists Henrietta Lacks is known as HeLa. Her cancerous cells were taken from her body without her consent or knowledge. Those cells became increasingly important in scientific research. They were used among other researchers to develop the polio vaccine, test the effects of steroids, hormones, vitamins, etc. Henrietta’s family did not find out until over 25 years later. One of the best non-fiction books I’ve ever read. Not to be missed!! –Seth